With clear skies and pleasant temperatures, the Second Simultaneous Andean Condor Census in San Luis was carried out, an initiative promoted by the BioAndina Foundation, the Andean Condor Conservation Program (PCCA), and the Secretariat of Environment and Sustainable Development.
The survey was conducted at 21 observation posts located on the usual mountain routes of the species, such as the Sierra de Las Quijadas, the Central Sierras, and the Comechingones Sierras.
Community Participation and Institutional Articulation
Environmental organizations, mountain clubs, and private reserves joined the conservation effort.
Over 70 volunteers participated in the census, including members of environmental organizations, university students, and engaged neighbors. Among the participants were:
- COA Chiguanco (Villa de Merlo) and COA Ñandú (Villa Mercedes)
- Private protected natural areas such as La Siempre Viva, Don Félix y Sacha Juan, Piedra del Agua, and Quebrada del Palmar
- Club Andino San Luis, Club de Montaña San Francisco, and Club Puntano de Escalada Deportiva
- Federal support from Aves Argentinas, Ecoparque de Buenos Aires, Árbol del Sur, and the Argentine Federation of Mountaineers
The team of provincial park rangers played a key role in logistics and data registration.
Census Objectives: Monitoring, Diagnosis, and Action
The census allows to:
- Monitor natural populations in different regions
- Evaluate habitat use and detect anthropic risks
- Design conservation measures based on evidence
The observation sites included areas such as the Pancanta Valley, the Florofaunistic Reserve of La Florida, the Mogote Bayo Provincial Park, the Condor’s Ravine, the Ramsar Site Lagunas de Guanacache, the Sierra de Las Quijadas National Park, among others.
The Andean Condor: Key Piece of the Ecosystem and Cultural Symbol
Scavenger bird that prevents diseases and represents the spirituality of Andean peoples.
The Andean condor (Vultur gryphus) fulfills essential ecological functions:
- Accelerates the decomposition of dead animals
- Prevents infectious outbreaks
- Maintains biological balance in high-altitude environments
Additionally, it is a symbol of freedom, power, and spiritual connection for cultures like the Inca, and is part of the zoo-cultural heritage of South America, present in myths, rituals, and artistic expressions.
Threats and Conservation Status: an Endangered Species
Classified as “threatened” in Argentina and “vulnerable” globally.
The main threats include:
- Poisoning by toxic baits
- Illegal hunting and lead contamination
- Habitat loss due to human development and extensive livestock farming
- Low reproductive rate: one offspring every two or three years
These conditions hinder population recovery and require coordinated and sustained actions.
